March 26th, 2010

Guam National Guard Speech
For Assistant Secretary Babauta
CNMI

March 26, 2010

Hafa adai, it is truly a pleasure to be here with you all this evening, the men and women who serve in the prestigious Guam National Guard. I would like to welcome you, your families and friends, it is truly an honor to be here in the presence of all of you. I have been asked to share a few words and I would first like to say that on behalf of President Barack Obama, who is back in Washington making sure the Senate passes the final touches on our historic new healthcare bill and on behalf of our fellow Americans on the mainland, we thank you and your families for your incredible service and dedication to this great country, particularly during these difficult and trying times while our nation is at war. Many of you may know that my father served in the military, as do countless of our Chamorro brothers and sisters and I know firsthand the enormous strain it places on families, I know the immense sacrifices that are made, I know the hardships that arise when families are separated. But in spite of it all, you get the job done, you remain stalwart in your mission and because of you, our country is not only a safer place but the world more secure. 

I am here this evening because back in February, Governor Fitial and Governor Felix P. Camacho of Guam signed a Memorandum of Understanding that would expand the Guam Army National Guard to the Northern Mariana Islands, by offering eligible residents the opportunity to join over 1300 of our men and women who valiantly serve in the Guard. The expansion of the National Guard to the Northern Marianas will increase civil response missions and assist in preserving peace and order not just throughout our Pacific islands but wherever you are called to serve.

This expansion, comes at an opportune moment, as we look to strengthen our security capabilities in the region. Our nation is currently at war, but there are nonetheless multiple benefits that are conferred when you make that bold decision and chose to serve in our National Guard. President Obama’s Fiscal 2011 proposed budget included $8.8 billion dollars in funding for the military and their families. During these hard economic times, this is the only budget that was not frozen and remains part of the President and First Lady’s ongoing commitment to care for our troops and their families even after the fighting ends.

The President’s spending plan seeks more money for military child care services, more family counseling and relocation assistance, bolstered career and education support for military spouses, and additional money to care for our injured soldiers.

Throughout American history, our all-volunteer force has been the backbone of the safety and freedom we all enjoy and at times take for granted. For this very reason, I am truly humbled to be introducing you all this beautiful evning, the new recruits of the Guam National Guard and grateful for the great service and dedication you continue to afford our nation. Si Yu'us ma'åse'.

Was this page helpful?

Please provide a comment